The only way to maximize the capacity and features of the Intel Core i7 8700k chip is to install this on the best motherboard. This processor has more than enough cores to work with even the most intensive computing tasks and it's also faster too so lags are impossible to come by.
If you're assembling a gaming computer or a system for extensive computing and you're using Intel's updated Core i7, let us help you find the best motherboards for i7 8700k.
We have mobos from the most prominent brands: GIGABYTE, MSI, ASUS, and ASRock to get you started.
Quick Summary
Best Gaming Motherboard for i7 8700k Chip from GIGABYTE | Best Gaming Motherboard for i7 8700k Chip from MSI | Best Motherboard for 8th Gen Intel Core from ASRock |
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How did we pick the best motherboard for the i7 8700k?
It wasn't easy to select the best motherboard for Intel's Core i7 chip as there are so many impressive products in the market. This is why we considered ratings and reviews provided by Amazon customers together with ratings and specs from tech sites and gaming forums. Most people who assembled their gaming PCs know and trust only four brands: GIGABYTE, MSI, ASUS, and ASRock, and knowing this information, we were able to get the best from these brands and compared ratings, specs, and stats.
The following are the best motherboards for the i7 8700k Intel Core chip
1. GIGABYTE Z390 AORUS ULTRA
Best Gaming Motherboard from GIGABYTE
The future of gaming PCs is here at GIGABYTE Z390 AORUS Ultra motherboard. This supports Intel's 9th and 8th gen Core chips and thus, the perfect mobo for gaming. It features dual-channel unbuffered DDR4 RAM, 4 DIMMs to enhance speeds and of course, it is Intel Optane ready, just like most compatible mobos.
Specifications
- Processor Socket – LGA 1151
- Compatible Processor – 8th Gen Intel Core Chips
- RAM Memory Size – DDR4
- Memory Speeds – 4400 MHz
- Updated Features – improved thermal design, faster Wi-Fi and Optane memory
- Dimensions – 13.58 x 11.57 x 3.14 inches, 3 pounds
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Features:
- Faster processor speeds
Enjoy faster gaming, computing, and all-around general computer use with this GIGABYTE motherboard. It is the best partner with the latest Intel Core chips, especially for gaming. You'll minimize lags, and avoid overclocking, which can damage your computer. - Improved thermal design
The very first thing you'll notice when you get this GIGABYTE mobo is the number of heat-dissipating components. You'll get a better Thermal Design, Direct Touch Heatpipe, and improved fan heaters with the Smart Fan 5 feature. - Faster Wi-Fi and enhanced audio
You have the edge over all other gamers as this motherboard gives you enhanced Wi-Fi connectivity. You will also enjoy your game better with its improved audio features. These features let you enhance your overall gaming experience.
Pros & Cons
- Pros
Enhanced heat transfer and dissipation
With hybrid headers for the fan and FAN STOP
Improved Wi-Fi and other basic connectivity
Intel Optane memory supported - Cons
Complaints conflicts with Corsair RAM
Problems with BIOS
2. MSI Z390-A PRO Gaming Motherboard
Best Gaming Motherboard for i7 8700k Chip from MSI
MSI is one of the leading mobo makers that fit Intel's top gaming chip. The MSI Z390-A Pro is their take on gaming motherboards that feature the dependable Z370 Intel Chipset, support for NVIDIA SLI, and improved thermal regulation properties. It could be the gaming motherboard you've been looking for your next build.
Specifications:
- Processor Socket – LGA 1151
- Compatible Processor – Intel Celeron and 8th gen Intel Core chips
- RAM Memory Size – DDR4
- Updated Features – dual-channel DDR4, CPU power connector, faster USB speeds
- Dimensions – 12 x 9.60 x 1.20 inches, 3.53 ounces
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Features
- Best for gaming
This motherboard supports Intel's latest 9th and 8th generation Core chips as well as past Intel processors like Pentium Gold and Celeron using the LGA 1151 processor socket. It also supports two-channel DDR4 with speeds up to 4400 MHz, which is why it's best for gaming and other hardcore computer processes. - Golden capacitors
Gold is a very reliable and durable material and this MSI motherboard uses this material to boost component speeds and prevent any connection interruptions. You'll have the fastest speeds thanks to its very durable and high-quality components. - Nahimic Sound Tech
Game audio keeps you immersed in the gameplay and this motherboard is your perfect partner with its Nahimic Sound Tech features. Get the sound that will rock your world and take you closer to victory with this cool add on. - Smart gaming ports for your devices
This mobo has improved ports made specifically for gaming, including the enhanced PCI-E steel slot with PCI-E Armor. The latter shields the ports and prevents sagging when you use heavy graphics cards.
Pros & Cons
- Pros
Supports Z390 Intel chips
With HDMI and DVI-D ports, 4PCIe 3.0 slots.
With enhanced 8-channel high definition audio
Faster USB speeds - Cons
Complaints not compatible with Windows 7
Poorly marked connections
3.ASRock B365M PRO4 Motherboard
Best Motherboard for 8th Gen Intel Core from ASRock
The ASRock B365M PRO4 is ASRock's take on professional gaming and computing motherboards. It is compatible with the new 8th and 9th gen Intel Core chips, and has ample memory slots and supports multiple graphics card support. If you're assembling a gaming mobo then we suggest you check out this impressive design from ASRock.
Specifications:
- Processor Socket – LGA 1151
- Compatible Processor – 8th gen Intel Core chips
- RAM Memory Size – DDR4
- Updated Feature – DIMM slots, maximum 64GB, versatile slots, and multiple graphics cards support
- Dimensions – 12 x 2.50 x 9.60 inches
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Features
- Supports Intel's 8th and 9th generation chips
Fast, no lags and ready for hardcore gaming as this ASRock motherboard works best with 9th and 8th gen Intel Core chips. You can guarantee fast and reliable responses which is why many gamers who assemble their system prefer this make and model. - Supports a variety of video/graphics cards
ASRock lets you use multiple video graphics card as it offers multi-graphics support. You can choose from an AMD Quad CrossFireX or the latest AMD CrossFireX tech as these were developed to accommodate four graphics cards in one computer. This enhances overall video performance.
Pros & Cons
- Pros
Works with 8th and 9th gen Intel Core processors
Supports different video/graphics cards
Well-designed heat dissipation capacity
Multiple slots available - Cons
Complaints with BIOS clear button placement
Complaints about the BIOS
Related: Best Motherboard for I7 9700k
4. ASUS Prime Z390-A Motherboard
Best ASUS Motherboard for i7 8700k Intel Core Chips
The ASUS Prime Z390-A was designed to match the power and the features of Intel's 9th and 8th gen Core chips. With this mobo, you can maximize your connectivity and speed through its enhanced slots and channels. It has the Safe Slot Core that protects your components from heavy graphics cards. This could be the gaming and all-around motherboard you've been looking for.
Specifications:
- Processor Socket – LGA 1151
- Compatible Processor – 8th gen Intel Core processors
- RAM Memory Size – DDR4
- Updated Features – Safe Slot Core, 8 channels for high definition audio, FanXpert 4
- Dimensions – 12.91 x 2.68 x 10.35 inches, 2.23 pounds
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Features
- For 8th and 9th gen Intel Core chips
This motherboard maximizes chip connectivity and computing speeds. It works with 9th and 8th gen Intel Core chips. It also comes with ASUS Optium II, a feature that reduces DRAM overclocking especially during extreme gaming sessions. - With Safe Slot Core
The Safe Slot Core is one of the features that provide up to 5 times board protection. This strengthens the board's PCIe slots which are often damaged because of very heavy graphics cards. Aside from the Safe Slot Core, you can guarantee a very durable board with the LAN Guard, and over-voltage protection. - Enhanced gaming audio
Other motherboards have the Nahimic while ASUS trusts Realtek ALC887 HD audio. This improves overall gaming performance as you become more immersed in the game. - Improved system cooling features
This motherboard has enhanced cooling features using the FanXpert 4 system. This feature keeps your system cool and ready for long and endless gaming sessions. The FanXpert gives you improved fan control that's needed for dynamic cooling.
Pros & Cons
- Pros
With Safe Slot Core
Improved heat dissipation
Multiple graphics card slots
Improved audio for gaming and all-around use - Cons
Not compatible with out of the box 9th gen processors
Problems with Windows 7
5. GIGABYTE Z390 UD Gaming Motherboard
Best Gaming Motherboard with Improved Graphics Support from GIGABYTE
The GIGABYTE Z390 UD Gaming Motherboard has a lot to offer when it comes to gaming. It is compatible with 8th and 9th gen Intel core chips and has improved circuitry for improved gaming and computing performance. It comes with PCIe Armor so expect a stronger and lasting motherboard. It also has support for RGB light connection strips.
Specifications:
- Processor Socket – LGA 1151
- Compatible Processor – 8th gen Intel Core processors
- RAM Memory Size – DDR4
- Memory Speeds – 4400 MHz
- Updated Features – PCIe Armor, durable design, RGB Light Strip, multiple graphics support
- Dimensions – 12.79 x 10.23 x 2.75 inches, 1 pound
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Features
- Multiple graphics support and improved board strength
Use several graphics cards at one time, thanks to GIGABYTE's multiple graphics support. And you won't have to worry about failing boards as this comes with a PCIe Armor and a better and stronger design. - Improved circuit design
You will benefit a lot from its enhanced circuitry with double channel DDR4 and DIMMs with a new digital PWD. It makes this board tougher and able to handle different components with ease. You will even get full-color RGB light strip support, a great feature to amp up your gaming style.
Pros & Cons
- Pros
Stronger design
Improved circuitry
Compatible with 8th and 9th gen Intel Core processors
Fan Stop - Cons
Complaints about BIOS
No display ports
Only three fan headers
6. MSI Performance GAMING Motherboard
Best MSI Motherboard for all Intel Core and Previous Processor Models
The MSI Performance Gaming motherboard is built for gaming and other hardcore computing tasks. It supports not only the latest processors, but also previous Pentium and Celeron using its improved LGA 1151 socket. It has four memory slots, improved heat management, and a stronger board.
Specifications:
- Processor Socket – LGA 1151
- Compatible Processor – Intel 8th gen Core, Celeron, and Pentium
- RAM Memory Size – DDR4
- Updated Features – 4 DDR4 slots, support for NVIDIA SLI
- Dimensions – 13.70 x 10.60 x 3.10 inches, 3.30 pounds
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Features
- Built for gaming
With this motherboard, you can customize your game with a unique color scheme through the Mystic Light feature. You can customize your PC using more than 16 million colors plus 17 lighting effects. You can control this with one click using the Mystic Light App or from your smartphone. - Improved storage
This MSI motherboard will take all updated storage systems. This lets you connect your storage device to benefit your game. You can start your game faster, to load games quickly, which is a great advantage over all other gamers. - Improved heat management
This motherboard has improved gaming heatsinks and the M.2 Shield, which is a heat enhancement for all M.2 devices. These can guarantee the best performance. - Improved board strength
The PCIe Steel Armor feature helps prevent bending as it protects your video graphics cards. This feature also prevents EMI damages due to power surges and faulty electrical connections.
Pros & Cons
- Pros
Enhance your game with the Mystic Light RGB
Improves cooling
Improved memory circuitry
Prevents VGA bending and avoids EMIs
Improved audio with Nahimic 2+
Improved wireless capabilities with the Intel Wi-Fi card - Cons
Not for out of the box Intel 9th gen Core chips
Problems with Bios
7. ASUS ROG Maximus XI Hero Z390 Gaming Motherboard
Best ASUS Gaming Motherboard with Improved Wi-Fi Connectivity
The ASUS ROG Maximus XI Hero is a gaming motherboard that supports the latest 8th and 9th gen Intel Core processors. This ATX motherboard boasts of enhanced Wi-Fi and improved DRAM overclocking with the ASUS Optimum II. This comes with improved heat management, enhanced installation, and new RGB lighting to inspire your gaming activities.
Specifications:
- Processor Socket – LGA 1151
- Compatible Processor – 8th gen Intel Core processors
- RAM Memory Size – DDR4
- Updated Features – improved Wi-Fi, ASUS Optimum II, 5-way optimization, FanXpert 4, AuraSync RGB, pre-mounted shield
- Dimensions – 14.57 x 4.25 x 12.28 inches, 1 pound
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Features
- Improved connectivity
This ASUS motherboard keeps you connected with no lags at the fastest speeds with its Dual M.2, Wi-Fi, and USB 3.1. You can also avoid overclocking as this features ASUS Optium II. - Enhanced thermal monitoring
You must always keep a close watch on your CPU temperature using enhanced thermal telemetry. It comes with the FanXpert 4 which can produce better dynamic cooling capabilities. - Aura Sync RGB
The Aura Sync RGC lighting allows you to customize your PC with a wide variety of colors. You can also use the software or app for this feature and synchronize your gaming effects. There are several Aura Sync-compatible products you can also use with this motherboard. - Improved installation
This motherboard has a pre-mounted shield for the I/O panel, which helps improve the assembly process and installation. This shield is one of the ways to show these brands strict attention to small details and better product quality.
Pros & Cons
- Pros
Protected I/O slots
Improved thermal design
Easy installation
Faster connectivity
Aura Sync RGB - Cons
Problems installing in a Corsair Obsidian case
Problems with Wi-Fi connectivity
Randomly disconnects
8. GIGABYTE Z390 DESIGNARE Motherboard
Best Motherboard with Onboard AC Wi-Fi from GIGABYTE
The GIGABYTE DESIGNARE motherboard supports 8th and 9th generation Intel Core chips. It has an improved design with improved thermal design and faster connectivity. This mobo is ready for Intel Optane Memory, a unique storage device that will boost PC performance and speeds. If you're looking for a good quality gaming motherboard then this could be the one for you.
Specifications:
- Processor Socket – LGA 1151
- Compatible Processor – 8th and 9th gen Intel Core, i7, i5, and i3 processors
- RAM Memory Size – DDR4
- Memory Speeds – 4400 MHz
- Updated Features – dual channel unbuffered DDR4, DrMOS, improved thermal design, Intel Thunderbolt 3 and Bluetooth 5
- Dimensions – 13.18 x 10.62 x 3.14 inches, 3 pounds
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Features
- With multiple graphics card support
This motherboard has advanced multiple graphics card support and despite this feature, the board is protected with Dual Armor and the Ultra Durable Design features which improves strength and resistance especially with heavy, expensive graphics card setups. - With enhanced audio capacitors
This motherboard is equipped with the ALC1220 – VB Enhance with 114dB from the rear and 110dB at the front. And to further enhance your gaming experience, it has the WIMA Audio Capacitor and SNR mic. - Improved heat management
Monitor your system temperature with the Smart Fan 5 with several sensors placed all over the CPU and various mobo components. The Hybrid Fan Headers are equipped with the FAN STOP for easy temperature regulation and maintenance. - Cool lighting effects
Under the hood is the RGB Lighting Effect that comes with all the colors and color combinations. You can also customize your gaming through the lighting software that comes with the system.
Pros & Cons
- Pros
Improved thermal design
Direct touch heat pipe
Faster wireless connectivity
Can support 8th and 9th gen Intel Core chips and previous versions - Cons
Heavy even if not yet set up
Only one USB 2.0 header
9. ASUS ROG Strix Z390-E Gaming Motherboard
Best Heat Management Motherboard from ASUS ROG.
The ASUS ROC Strix is a motherboard ideal for 8th to 9th gen Intel Core processors. You will be faster with improved connectivity and avoids overclocking. This mobo has improved heat removal, safe and durable slots, and pre-mounted I/O shields for protection against EMI and improved installation.
Specifications:
- Processor Socket – LGA 1151
- Compatible Processor – 8th and 9th gen processors
- RAM Memory Size – DDR 4
- Updated Features –ASUS Optium III, FanXPert 4, pre-mounted shields, Gamers Guardian
- Dimensions – 13.50 x 3.03 x 10.75 inches, 4 pounds
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Features:
- Improved optimization
This motherboard has a 5-way optimization that will avoid overclocking. The secret is smart protection and from data gathered through smart telemetry. This enhanced optimization helps you enhance the use of your PC whether you're using it for gaming or other high-intensity computing tasks. - Gamer's Guardian
This unique feature ensures that your motherboard will work as long as you need it. This goes hand in hand with Safe Slot to keep your circuitry safe from EMI and other dangerous factors. ESD guards and over current protection are also available. - Easy installation
This motherboard comes with pre-mounted I and O which ensures fast and easy installation. This feature helps most beginner gaming board assemblers and DIY mobo enthusiasts.
Pros & Cons
- Pros
Cooler design
With 5-way optimization
Gamers Guardian
Easy to install
Improved thermal telemetry - Cons
Heavy and bulky compared to other motherboards
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Who should buy a motherboard for the i7 8700k?
Motherboards for the i7 8700k processor are best for people who want to assemble their fast, efficient and
Important features to consider
There are many factors to consider when buying the best motherboard for an i7 8700k chip. Here are the most important:
- Get to know the different updated chipsets and sockets and their differences. The LGA 1151 socket supports all 8th and 9th gen Intel Core chips (Coffee Lake 8th gen and Coffee Lake 9th gen).
- Get to know the motherboard form factor. This will ensure that your board will fit your tower case. The type of form factor also determines the components that the mobo supports. There are three major form factors: Mini-ITX, MicroATX, and ATX.
- Check the number of expansion ports. Nowadays, expansion ports are simpler and you're likely to get PCIe slots and PCI slots to accommodate older components. There are also varying slot sizes from x1 to x16.
- The motherboard should support the type of GPU that you wish to use. If you want to connect more GPUs, the SLI from NVIDIA and the Crossfire from AMD uses specific motherboards.
- The motherboard should have ample connectivity ports from the internal connectivity slots and the I and O panel at the back of the case.
- Cooling or heating management systems are essential. There must be fan headers, heat pipes, heatsinks, etc. All these help make your processor run cooler and more efficiently.
Final Thoughts
A motherboard is the heart of any system. It's important to understand these specs and factors to find the ideal one for your needs. And more importantly, take note of thermal regulation, telemetry, and overall board design to ensure that you'll get the most out of your powerful i7 8700k Intel Core processor.
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